\De*mur"rage\, n. [Cf. OF. demorage delay. See
{Demur}.] (Law)
(a) The detention of a vessel by the freighter beyond the
    time allowed in her charter party for loading, unloading,
    or sailing.
(b) The allowance made to the master or owner of the ship for
    such delay or detention.
          The claim for demurrage ceases as soon as the ship
          is cleared out and ready for sailing. --M`Culloch.
Note: The term is also applied to similar delays and
      allowances in land carriage, by wagons, railroads, etc.